Australians have long embraced the outdoors, and today’s home designs increasingly reflect that lifestyle. Alfresco living areas are no longer an afterthought, they’re a central part of the home, offering a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the best of the seasons. But the true success of an alfresco space often hinges on one key element: the doors that connect it to your home.
From seamless stacker systems to timeless French doors, the right alfresco door enhances your home’s look and transforms its function. Whether you’re opening up your kitchen to a leafy courtyard or creating flow from your lounge to a sun-drenched patio, here’s everything you need to know about choosing the perfect alfresco doors.
Why Your Choice of Alfresco Door Matters
Alfresco doors aren’t just a design feature but a lifestyle upgrade. The right doors can:
- Flood your interiors with natural light
- Improve airflow and ventilation
- Create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition
- Maximise usable living space
- Provide insulation and weather resistance
- Reduce noise from the outside
Whether you’re designing a new build or upgrading an older home, your door choice will influence everything from layout and function to energy bills and resale value.
1. Alfresco Sliding Doors – Sleek, Functional, and Perfect for Tight Spaces
Aluminium sliding doors are a classic choice for contemporary homes. Their minimalist lines and large glass panels let in light and views without disrupting wall space. The streamlined design is ideal when you need functionality without visual clutter.
Why choose sliding doors?
- Ideal for compact areas where hinged or folding doors aren’t practical
- Smooth operation with minimal maintenance
- Works well in modern homes with open-plan layouts
Top Pick: Proglide Sliding Doors
Custom Windows’ Proglide system is engineered for durability and performance in WA’s climate. With thick double-glazed glass, drop-in tracks for water protection, and multiple configuration options (including double and triple tracks), these doors are as practical as they are beautiful.
Best for: Courtyards, balconies, or narrow alfresco zones with limited clearance.
Did you know? Proglide sliding doors feature gutter sills with hidden drainage, perfect for heavy Perth downpours.
2. Alfresco Stacker Doors – Designed for Wide Openings and Alfresco Entertaining
Aluminium stacker doors are built for bigger statements. With up to six sliding panels that neatly stack to one side, they can open up an entire wall, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors and welcoming in light, air, and guests.
Why choose stacker doors?
- Expansive openings for uninterrupted flow
- Option to include double glazing for better insulation
- Excellent for high-traffic zones and entertaining areas
Best for: Open-plan living spaces that connect to patios, decks or pool areas.
Did you know? Custom Windows’ stacker doors can span up to 6.5m wide, depending on configuration and site requirements.
3. Alfresco Bi-Fold Doors – Dramatic, Stylish, and Ideal for Entertainers
Few door styles feel as transformative as bi-folds. Folding back concertina-style, they allow you to completely open a space, providing a stunning, unobstructed view and exceptional ventilation.
Why choose bi-fold doors?
- Create a resort-style connection to the outdoors
- Perfect for entertaining and flexible living
- Available with double-glazed glass for thermal performance
Best for: Statement openings to alfresco dining areas or large verandahs.
Did you know? With multiple sill and panel options, bi-fold doors can be tailored to suit nearly any opening width or floor level.
4. Alfresco French Doors – Traditional Charm Meets Modern Aluminium Strength
French doors bring timeless elegance to any home. When built in aluminium, they combine the romantic look of classic hinged doors with the strength and low maintenance of modern materials.
Why choose French doors?
- Elegant in appearance, with durable aluminium frames
- Available in single or double door configurations
- Suitable for both internal and external openings
Best for: Character homes, heritage facades, or homeowners seeking a grand entryway.
Did you know? Powder-coated aluminium frames resist corrosion and won’t warp like timber, even in coastal areas.
Double Glazing for Year-Round Comfort
Double glazing can be integrated across most door styles. This upgrade offers:
- Better thermal insulation for hot summers and cool winters
- Noticeable reduction in external noise
- Lower energy bills and improved home comfort
All Custom Windows products are designed to accommodate high-performance glass, with double glazing available across sliding, stacker, bi-fold, and French door configurations (subject to design requirements).
What to Consider When Choosing Your Alfresco Doors
Your alfresco door decision should balance beauty with practicality. Consider:
- Opening direction: Inward, outward or sliding. Match it to your furniture layout and space flow.
- Panel configuration: From single sliders to six-panel stackers, customisation is key.
- Glazing: Choose from clear, tinted or double-glazed glass based on sunlight, energy needs, and privacy.
- Finish and colour: From matte black to classic white, powder-coated aluminium offers durable, on-trend options.
- Hardware and functionality: Look for durable rollers, integrated drainage systems, and secure multi-point locks.
Built for WA Homes
All door systems from Custom Windows are made to withstand Western Australia’s climate, from summer heat to winter storms and everything in between. Carinya aluminium frames are corrosion-resistant and engineered to last, while thick glazing and sealed systems meet the highest energy-efficiency standards.
Certified under WERS and AS2047, these doors don’t just look good, they work hard behind the scenes to keep your home comfortable, secure, and stylish.
Your Perfect Alfresco Door Is Closer Than You Think
Transforming your alfresco space begins with the right connection point. Whether you’re looking for a slimline sliding door for your courtyard, a set of showstopping stackers to open up your patio, or French doors to frame your garden view, there’s a door for every style and need.
Looking to upgrade your space? Talk to the experts at Custom Windows about the best alfresco door options for your home.